Spotlight on Lynn Whitaker

Each month we spotlight a volunteer, staff member, docent, donor, or sponsor of Virginia Robinson Gardens (VRG) — those that have made an impact on the organization. We want to let you know about these wonderful people and corporations that give so much to the Virginia Robinson Gardens and to the community, and what they do that is so impactful.

This month, we spotlight Lynn Whitaker, a dedicated Friend of Robinson Gardens Executive Board Member.

We asked her these three questions:

1. How did you first learn about VRG, and what inspired you to become a Friend?

In the early 90’s, a close friend of mine was taking a gardening class from Nancy Goslee Power, and one of her gardens was featured on the Garden Tour that year.  My friend invited me to join her on the Tour, and I was hooked!  When I moved back to NYC in the late 90’s, I flew to LA every year to go on the Garden Tour – it was a highlight of my year.

What drew me to VRG was the house, I confess. I love the gardens, but my true love is historic homes, and as I watched the restoration progress over the years, I told myself I needed to be part of this.

2. What’s your role – How do you contribute to VRG?

I am a member of the Executive Board, and my most consistent role is to take minutes at the monthly Board meetings – a job I take very seriously! Being a part of the Executive Board has meant a great deal to me as I interact with so many passionate, gifted, intelligent women whose primary goal is focused on the preservation of VRG. I believe my business-centric career background gives me a perspective that complements the ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­talents of the other members.

3. Can you share a favorite VRG memory with us?

There are so many! I think one of my favorites was the first “Special Board Meeting” in December. The house was beautifully decorated and lit up to perfection – it was magical! Being with so many of the Board in the beauty of the house that time of year is a precious memory.

4. Please add any additional information you would like to share!

My previous career before becoming a real estate professional was in Women’s Apparel, initially as a buyer for large department stores, but mainly on the wholesale end. During my time in the wholesale business, one of my favorite retailers was J.W.Robinson’s. The store was known for its upscale assortments and refined selection of women’s clothing – it was considered one of the finest retailers in the country. I am so delighted to be part of the home of the Robinsons and wish I could tell Virginia in person how respected the J.W.Robinson’s store was in our industry.